The cricketing world showered warm wishes on veteran Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane as he celebrated his 36th birthday today (June 6). Recently seen in action for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) during IPL 2024, Rahane’s campaign ended at the league stage after a tough loss against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a virtual knockout match on May 18.
Despite a successful season last year, Rahane struggled to make a significant impact for CSK in IPL 2024. In 13 matches, he managed to score only 242 runs at an average of 20.17, with his highest score being 45. Looking to move past this challenging phase, Rahane aims to focus on the upcoming domestic season with Mumbai. He has also been out of contention for the Indian Test team selection for over a year.
Birthday Wishes Pour In
On his birthday, cricket fraternity members and fans took to social media platform X to send their heartfelt wishes to Rahane. His long-standing teammate Cheteshwar Pujara led the way, followed by several other cricket personalities and fans.
Here are some of the wishes:
- “Won BGT as Captain in Australia. IPL Trophy Winner. Asia Cup Winner. Test Hundred at Lord’s. 8514 runs in International cricket. Brilliant records in Test in overseas. – Wishing a very Happy Birthday to one of the finest batsmen of this Generation, Ajinkya Rahane,” a fan wrote.
- “Happy Birthday to the stylish batsman and a true team player,” another fan posted.
- “Wishing a very happiest birthday to my favorite player on cricket field sir ‘Ajinkya Rahane’. He is India’s best player vs pace in any hostile conditions. He has his name written in iconic venues like Lord’s, MCG,” another fan expressed.
- “Happy Birthday @ajinkyarahane88 sir you have given us lots of proud moments….,” a fan shared.
- “Happy Birthday Ajju Dada. Your elegant batting, leadership, and determination inspire us all. Wishing you good health and happiness on and off the field. Keep shining! Jinks!” another fan wrote.
- “Wishing you the happiest of birthdays to the sweetest person! Thank you for existing!! May you have the bestest day filled with lots of love, laughter, and joy,” a fan added.
- “Happy birthday jinx, see you in CSK next year too,” a CSK fan hoped.
Ajinkya Rahane’s Impressive Test Cricket Numbers
Rahane has represented India in all three formats over the past decade, but Test cricket has been his forte. He has played 85 Tests, scoring 5077 runs at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries and 26 fifties.
Rahane was a mainstay in the middle order for several years and led the team to a memorable Test series win in Australia during the 2020-21 season. However, after inconsistent performances, he lost his place following the West Indies tour last year as selectors opted to bring in younger talents.
As Rahane looks ahead to rejuvenating his career, the outpouring of love and respect on his birthday highlights his significant impact and legacy in Indian cricket.
